Staff Suggestions

Every suggestion submitted to our anonymous suggestion box will be reviewed and discussed at a weekly Cabinet Leadership meeting. We will not publish submissions that are specific to a small group or that name specific people. Please take a solutions-oriented approach to our suggestion box. We will not publish complaints. Thank you for helping us make Northwest Regional Education Service District a better place to work.

Suggestion:Signs keep popping up on the main WSC entrance doors. Is there a place where other information besides closing info can be posted? Signs seem to be mostly employee-directed and we are a public building. Also, can the quality of the closing signs be looked at? We know our calendar many months in advance which would allow signs to be created uniformly and laminated or placed in a mounted holder of some sort. Let's show our best face to our visitors. Thank you.

Suggestion:The artwork and photography displayed at the Washington Service Center hasn't been changed out for some time. Could we get submissions from our creative students and staff within our schools and centers?

Response:If you are interested in coordinating the artwork at the Washington Service Center, please email Tracey Goldner in Communications. We will develop a rotating calendar so that artwork is regularly updated at our central office. ​Dec. 13, 2018

Suggestion:More/clearer signs for meetings rooms. Telling a visitor "down the hall to the left" can still be confusing (ie Meadow Lark rm). Please consider adding more signs with arrows. (Possibly bigger in size to help reading from afar.)

Response: The Facilities team is working with a contractor during the spring of 2019 to improve signage at the Washington Service Center.

Dec. 11, 2018

Suggestion:Now that all staff have had time to adjust to electronic time sheets it would be helpful to have a refresher training on how to add/delete/differentiate contract and non-contract that have been pre-entered incorrectly, and how extra duty should be documented. Thanks for your consideration!

Response: Thank you for your suggestion. We will begin working on a refresher training.

Dec. 6, 2018

Suggestion:When will training for Google migration begin?

Response: Training for the Google migration has already begun. The Technology team has sent updates to all staff in the Monday Memo. If you'd like to read about Google Drive File Stream, read the Nov. 13 and Nov. 19 editions. If you'd like to read about when we're going to start sunsetting the O and U drives and about the benefits of using Google Drive, read the Dec. 3 issue. If you'd like to know more about the safest way to save your files, read the Dec. 10 edition. The Technology team will continue to provide more information about these changes in future Monday Memos.

Dec. 3, 2018

Suggestion: A quick link for EC Web is really important if you are using a loaner computer. I tried searching the website with a coworker and we could not find where to access it!

Response: There is an ecWeb link on the Software page of the myNWRESD site. Just go to myNWRESD and click on Software in the top navigation. That page includes 16 software links to the software programs staff use most often. If you'd like to request a new link for that page, please email Tracey Goldner or Andrea Keifer. ​Nov. 30, 2018

Suggestion: It is so nice that the very large sign that used to be in the lobby is no longer there. Our greeter staff are so friendly and kind, it's nice to be able to see them (and greet them, with an unobstructed view and a smile) when we walk in. My suggestion is to NOT bring that sign back, and to continue to deliver personal customer service when directing visitors to their training locations.

Response: Thank you for your message.

Nov. 13 and 27, 2018

Suggestion: Could NWRESD partner with Verizon so that employees can get a 15% discount on monthly service plans? NWRESD would start by contacting their customer care department. Several years ago we had cell phone stipends. As cell phone use becomes ever more ubiquitous, and as we in EI/ECSE reach out to families via text more and more, it would be great to have this support. I think this is a way the ESD can take advantage of a benefit that's already available and make it accessible to employees.

Suggestion: Is there a way that the ESD can collaborate with a gym and medical insurance to get a reduce rate to increase physical activity and improve self-care options?

Response to both questions about staff discounts: Because we are public employees, we are personally and individually required to adhere to Oregon Ethics Laws. These laws are intended to prevent public employees from benefiting financially from their positions, benefiting from a conflict of interest, or accepting inappropriate gifts.

One way to check yourself for an individual ethics violation is called the “but for” test. You can use the “but for” test. A public official should not use an official position to obtain financial gain or avoid financial detriment that would not otherwise be available “but for” that position. Benefits that are part of collective bargaining agreements are not subject to the “but for” test. As a result, public employers avoid coordinating employee benefits and incentives that are not part of bargaining agreements.

The Oregon Ethics Commission (OEC) offers online and on-site training on ethics violations. This year, Washington Service Center support services staff received this training at the October In-Service. If your department or site is interested in this training, Fiscal Services staff can help connect you with OEC for more information. Read more about Oregon's ethics laws >>

Suggestion: Please provide a workshop or tips/strategies for staff that commute to our other services areas such as Tillamook, Clatsop, and Columbia County. Driving takes a toll on our bodies physically and emotionally. We'd love to learn ways to minimize injury and reduce stress from inclement weather.

Response: We have forwarded your request to the Wellness Council Chair for review and consideration.

Nov. 6, 2018

Suggestion: I've noticed that families are not using their parking spot especially during days when there are several meetings that overrun the number of parking spaces in our lot. The parking signs reflects the need for a permit which is no longer sent to families in their packets. I would like to suggest updating the signs by covering the portion that reads " Parking by Permit Only All Others will be Towed" with maybe a sticker with NWRESD logo.

Response: Nancy Ford is going to look into the family permit process.

Nov. 1, 2018

Suggestion: Would it be possible to create a small, quiet space for mindfulness and meditation? I think it would give employees an opportunity to take a "mindfulness" break during the day, sit in quiet meditation for just a few minutes, and enjoy the benefits that mindfulness brings.

Response: We are not going to create dedicated mindfulness rooms right now. But if conference rooms are not in use, staff can reserve and use those.

Oct. 25, 2018

Suggestion: I would love to see some sort of school spirit days at our service centers. It would help to bring us all together and feel more like a team. We could have shirts/sweatshirts made for purchase and the funds raised could go toward individual school/site needs. Planned days could be "Jeans and school spirit shirt/sweatshirt", or "U of O Ducks vs Oregon Beavers", or "Favorite NFL team" etc. It's a fun way to come together and create more of a team feeling and also can even start conversations between employees that might not otherwise converse. It's really great for morale!

Response: Please work with your service center's Sunshine Committee to coordinate special days and observances. If you work at the Washington Service Center and would like to join the Sunshine Committee (either as a member or the chair), please email Tracey Goldner.

Oct. 23, 2018

Suggestion: Would love a way to incentive/make Spanish conversational classes more accessible to providers who want to learn the language. This could be one strategy (as part of a larger framework, of course) to support us in making our services more accessible. Ideas include having a teacher come to each site, etc.

Response: Short of sending a teacher to each site, some of our sites have had great success with a Parent Cafe model where the people in the community step up to lead a learning group. The idea of the cafe is that people who want to learn Spanish would all come together with fluent speaker of Spanish who wants to learn English. They agree on a time each week or month and work together on their language skills. If you are interested in setting up a Parent Cafe, please work with your community to set up a time for people to meet. Read more about the cafe concept and see our Aug. 21 response about Spanish resources you can use to improve your language skills.

Oct. 23, 20

Suggestion: Make it possible to get into staff Kudos. even when logged into my ESD email (and logged out of other gmail accounts), I have yet to be able to get into it this year. I want to say nice things about some of my coworkers. :(

Response: We made the Staff Kudos form public on Wednesday, Oct. 24, so you no longer need to be logged into a NWRESD domain to access it. Please let the HelpDesk know if you are still having problems accessing the form. Thanks so much for participating in our peer recognition program.

Oct. 22, 2018

Suggestion:When considering the 2019-2020 licensed/classified-licensed staff calendar, please try to avoid having 2 weeks in a row with the same day having no students. With program break Oct 11 then the Regional Inservice Oct 18, those of us who are only on site 1-2 days per week went from 4 Thursdays in a normal month to 2 Thursdays in this month in which to provide service to all students with class on Thursdays. Thank you!

Response: We will take your suggestion into account as we develop our 2019-20 calendar. For those who are unfamiliar with the process, we will begin developing our calendar this winter and will ask for staff feedback in late winter.

Oct. 15, 2018

Suggestion: In service to all genders, it would be nice to have the all gender restrooms between instructional services and the open space leading to the large kitchen marked on the outside wall as the one near outdoor school is. Also, a map of all restrooms with labels such as female/male, all gender, changing table available, etc. would be very nice at the front desk for anyone who accesses our building. They shouldn’t have to ask. Thank you!

Response: We are currently working to make our signage at the Washington Service Center more consistent. We will also develop a map and make it available at the front desk. We are unable to post maps of our buildings online because of security concerns.

Suggestion: When considering the 2019-2020 schedule, I would like to suggest that the ECSE calendar revert back to working Mon-Thurs for the July session. In the calendar this year, the ECSE sites worked Friday July 27th, and Friday August 3rd. With our class sizes and caseloads smaller during the summer, these planning days would be better utilized during the school year.

Response:​ We will take your suggestion into account as we develop our 2019-20 calendar. For those who are unfamiliar with the process, we will begin developing our calendar this winter and will ask for staff feedback in late winter.

Suggestion: When considering the 2019-2020 licensed staff calendar, I would strongly suggest returning to four day work weeks for the July session (M-Th only). With class sizes smaller, the workload tends to be smaller. I think the planning/work days could be better utilized throughout the year, perhaps when returning from a break or long weekend. Thank you for considering!

Response:​ We will take your suggestion into account as we develop our 2019-20 calendar. For those who are unfamiliar with the process, we will begin developing our calendar this winter and will ask for staff feedback in late winter.

Sept. 28, 2018

Suggestion: The restrooms in the main hall of WSC are not clean. Mold is growing around the faucets & the stall doors need a thorough cleaning. Perhaps a custodial position to help with cleanliness of restrooms. kitchen & room set-up & breakdown would help with this issue as the building usage is increasing.

Response: Our Facilities team talked with our custodians and the issue has been resolved. Please contact Facilities if you see a cleaning issue in the future, and we will address it immediately with our custodial staff. We do not have funds in the budget for a daytime custodial staff position at this time.

In terms of our meeting spaces, meeting organizers are currently responsible for setting up and breaking down the conference rooms. And everyone who uses the kitchen is responsible for cleaning up after themselves. Please remember to label your refrigerator items and load and unload the dishwasher as needed.

Suggestion: When will the cracked sidewalk & asphalt in the back parking lot area by the warehouse entry be fixed ? This is a liability for both employees & guests.

Response: We are currently getting estimates for repairing the sidewalks and driveways and will keep staff updated through the Monday Memo.

Sept. 18, 2018

Suggestion: For equity sake, I would love to see a child's changing station in the men front restroom.

Response: We will make sure that anyone who needs to change a child in our buildings will have a changing table available. We will survey our sites to determine where changing tables are needed.

Sept. 13, 2018

Suggestion: I recall speaking to Megan about this, but there should be water bottle filling stations at the WSC. She stated that the Wellness program was going to have this underway but this conversation was had months ago. I'd hope that things are rolling with this!

Response:This Friday, Sept. 21 we will begin adding water bottle filling stations to water fountains in locations where we work with children. Twelve water fountains will be converted over the next 3 weeks. Three at Washington Service Center, one each at Beaverton, Hillsboro and Tualatin Early Childhood Centers, three at Levi Anderson, one at Day Treatment Program, one a Columbia Academy, and one at Columbia Service Center. We already have filling stations at Cascade and Pacific Academies. We received funding from the Medicaid Administrative Claiming survey to complete this project and in the future, we plan to promote healthy hydration habits with our students.

​Sept. 12, 2018

​​Suggestion: It's distracting to have writing from previous meetings on the whiteboards. Can we add a reminder to have people clean off the whiteboards after using them?

​Response: Yes, we will add reminders throughout the building. We will supply Expo whiteboard cleaner and paper towels in every room with a whiteboard.

Sept. 5, 2018​​​Suggestion:Would it be possible to opt in to having our encrypted direct deposit receipts attached to our payroll confirmation emails? This has happened at least once on my pay notice emails, but most of the time it is an email that just says to refer to the employee portal for more information. The payroll statement on the IV Staff Web Portal does not reflect as much of the information that is posted on the direct deposit receipts (such as leave used/accumulated, YTD amounts, etc).

​Response: We used to send direct deposit receipts through email but because the Infinite Visions web portal doesn't offer encryption, we no longer send banking information through email. The web portal information should match your direct deposit receipt. Please email payroll if you need more information.

​Note: Please remember to use a different username/password for your web portal and your NWRESD email, so that hackers won't be able to access your banking information if they get into your email account.

Aug. 24, 2018

​​​Suggestion: During any sort of in-service, training, etc. when videos are used, can the organizers and presenters make it a standard to always turn on closed captioning/subtitles during videos when available? It would definitely help make our spaces more inclusive for everyone, plus it's great for when there's lots of background noise or chatter.

​Response: Yes, we will add a tri-fold reminder to the rooms with projectors and ask people to remember to turn on the captioning when playing videos. We will also include a reminder in the Monday Memo the week of Sept. 17.

Aug. 21, 2018

​Suggestion: I would like to see a Spanish class offered after work at the ESD. I know I could benefit from this and I think it would really show that the ESD cares about all of its students if we could communicate in the native language of some of our families.

​Response: We held a feasibility meeting on Sept. 17 with staff from our Human Resources and ELL teams. The group decided not to offer Spanish classes at this time because there are many language-learning resources already available, and people who want to learn Spanish can use those. Use the following resources to begin practicing your Spanish (or other languages):

Suggestion: Personal items (towels and toiletries) are being left in the new shower room. Could a sign be added to that room asking that folks take all of their personal belongings with them when they are done? This is a public/shared room to be used by all staff – it would be really nice to walk into a clean room and not have to work around what others have left behind.

​Response: We are in the process of adding a towel rack to the shower room to make space for additional towels. We will add a sign asking people to use the rack on the far wall to dry towels and to avoid leaving toiletries in the shower. ​

June 7 - 19, 2018

Suggestion: In the future, if Leadership meetings could be scheduled outside of the last two weeks of school, it would help administrators who are scrambling to accomplish all the end of the year tasks (especially staff evaluations).​Response: The June 2019 Leadership Team meeting will be held the third Tuesday: June 18, 2019

May 16 - June 6, 2018

Suggestion: Is there any thought to shorten our work emails to @nwresd.org? I feel like I spend a lot of time telling people my super-long email address, and they sometimes hear it wrong and I don’t receive the email because of it.Response: The Tech Department is looking into this suggestion. It will take some time to implement.

Suggestion: More of a question than a suggestion. With plans for a remodel of the warehouse area into a learning hub, how will parking accommodate current staff and the increased amount of visitors and the impact to the community? As it is, we are already asked to park on the street to allow visitors close access. In my view, there isn't enough parking already, how will we accommodate any more vehicles?​Response: We would accommodate the need for more parking by being VERY innovative! We have the opportunity to create a professional learning space for 250 attendees that would meet our needs and the needs of our districts as well, so as we continue exploring funding, we will also explore solutions to parking. Rob just filmed a video on this topic – it will be shared in the next few weeks, so stay tuned!

May 4 - 14, 2018

Suggestion: As the weather improves and is nicer outside - it is more and more freezing here at the Washington Service Center. The nicer it is outside, the more the jackets and blankets have to be piled on. This has been a frustrating ongoing situation. Is there any way that we can keep the building temp at or above 68 degrees at the very least?Response: With temperature extremes in spring and fall, HVAC struggles a bit to keep up with the highs and lows common in those seasons. WSC heating/cooling units are maintained quarterly, and repairs promptly addressed to avoid down time on any of our units; malfunctions can happen, but it is rare. The default setting on all the units is 69/72, and unless there is an issue with the unit, the areas they serve fluctuate between the two temperatures during the work day.

Suggestion: At HECC we seem to have an issue with all of the clocks in the building NOT showing the same time. You go from one room to another and there can be as much as 5 minutes difference. I would like to propose that atomic digital clocks, which set themselves to the correct time, be made available for all rooms in the building. They are approximately $20 each online.Response: This will be addressed by the building administrator.

April 26 - May 3, 2018

Suggestion: Can the towing notices can be repaired or removed on the poles in the parking lot at the WSC. They are very worn and broken. Thanks!Response: The Facilities Department is on it!

April 11-25, 2018

Suggestion: I believe we should have a water filtration system/water bottle filling station within the WSC building. Our guests should be able to have access to clean water for themselves along with clean water pitchers during events. Not only for our guests, but our staff should be able to enjoy drinking clean water while at work. It could encourage people to get up more and have folks more hydrated! I'm sure the wellness initiative would be on board with this idea.

​Response: We’re in the process of purchasing and installing water filtration systems and water bottle filling stations in all ESD facilities, schools, and early childhood programs that currently don’t have a system.

March 7 - April 11, 2018

Suggestion: I find the online staff directory difficult to maneuver. Two examples: 1. When I search for a particular admin asst, I can find them in their dept but it does not show what duties they are responsible for (purchasing/immunizations/etc) so end up having to call/email to find out who I should be contacting. 2. GED testing is difficult to find and who the admin asst is for that dept. It would be extremely helpful if the admin asst was listed on each of the particular web pages. We take calls from various schools, colleges and other agencies and direct them to the website but they typically want a name/number. Is it possible to have paper copies available of the directory as well?

​Response: We are in the process looking for a solution for a searchable staff directory. Unfortunately, drilling down to specific duties won't be possible and there are no plans for a print directory.

Suggestion: Possible to upgrade the kitchen sink and faucet at the WSC? A building this large and with this much use could really use a bigger/deeper sink and a faucet that can be pulled out for easier washing of large bowls, coffee pots, etc.?​Response: The Facilities Dept. will get quotes on making the sink(s) more industrial and caterer-friendly.

February 19 - March 7, 2018

Suggestion: Yamhill Carlton SD runs the Alliance Academy (K-8) and Home Bound (9-12) to assist home school students and parents in and out of district with curriculum and other resources such as text books and laptops (Windows or Chrome OS at this time). I have become aware that a group of families are trying to get a similar program started in Vernonia, they all currently participate with Yamhill Carlton. This could be an opportunity for the ESD with different options for addressing such as providing assistance to the existing program(s) in the region or evaluating creating an ESD program for this. The district(s) do receive funds per student enrolled in these programs so that does need to be consideredResponse: Thanks for the innovative idea. We will look into it this spring and report back.

Suggestion: https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/start-a-program/. I did some quick checking and the closest partner I could find was the Wilsonville Public Library but you have to live within the Wilsonville area to participate. Thought it may be worth evaluating if it could be done by the ESD and possibly in conjunction with the Foundation.Response: Thanks for another innovative suggestion! However, while the ESD Foundation has the required 501c3 nonprofit status (the ESD does not, its status is 'governmental'), it's estimated that the expense - as little as it is - could exceed the Foundation's annual budget. In addition while promoting literacy is extremely worthy, the Foundation's by-laws are specfic to supporting efforts for children receiving special ed/at-risk services, not the general public. Thanks.

Suggestion: WSC has many visitors /vendors in our building with no check in or registration at the front desk to register who is in the building. Anyone could walk in at any time! Most ESDs in our region have a check in process - with at least a visitor badge or at least an adhesive visitor name tag. What is NWRESD doing to ensure the safety of our buildings, visitors & staff?Response: We take the safety of people in our buildings seriously and have taken/will continue to take steps to help position us to preempt dangerous situations. The tragedies that occur in schools or public spaces could not have been prevented by having people sign in or wear a badge. While the information below is also not a guarantee of safety, it should give staff a measure of peace knowing the tools we have in place at the WSC:

The WSC is locked down so that all visitors have to enter via the front door/reception lobby.

Receptionists and substitutes are trained to make eye contact and acknowledge anyone who enters.

They are instructed ANY TIME they feel threatened, they are to access the silent alarm which immediately alerts Hillsboro police who respond with the same urgency and protocol as they do when an armed holdup is occurring at a bank.

The reception desk is also equipped with a button that locks the front door if the receptionist feels someone coming up the front walkway presents a threat to safety.

The Hillsboro Police Dept. has toured the WSC to become familiar with the layout, and has provided suggestions to help mitigate dangers. While we cannot implement every suggestion due to their high-cost, there are several we are working on (such as a feature that would have the phone system broadcast an alert to every phone in the building). More on this later...

The Regional Safety Oversight Committee meets monthly with the agency's insurance providers to assess both employee workplace safety risks and solutions, as well as building-level safety issues/drills, etc.

Suggestion: It would be useful to have the anonymous surveys reinstated that allow us to give feedback to our supervisors. Often times there are points of feedback we would like to share about communication and so forth but it feels too intimidating to do so face to face because of the power differential. Additionally, the supervisors may be able to see trends in how they interact with subordinates based on feedback from a large number of people. The last time we received a Survey Monkey that allowed us to give supervisor feedback was 5 years ago. Can this be re-instated as an annual opportunity?Response: A committee will consider how to implement a supervisory feedback tool within each department. We will let you know when we have something in place.

Suggestion: The WSC has had a significant increase of meetings/trainings the last several months. The main restrooms (across from 315/316) and kitchen space are well used but are not cleaned through the day. Garbage bins & dirty dishes are often overflowing. Perhaps these spaces can have a mid-day refresh & cleanup for our guests & staff.​Response: We do not have a daytime custodian, so .... 1.) Individual departments hosting large, all-day meetings in 315/316 need to monitor the kitchen and the bathroom; 2.) The Facilities Dept, will increase the number of garbage cans in the restrooms mentioned; and 3.) If you see something that bothers you please consider helping. It only takes 30 seconds to make a difference. Thanks.

February 13 - 19, 2018

Suggestion: I recently hosted a large training in the Washington room. It was difficult to clean up after the event because there were no approved cleaners in the kitchen area, nor were there any towels except for the paper towels in the dispensers. The training utilized probably 40 or more of the tables, so cleaning them was really difficult (and incredibly time consuming) without proper cleaning supplies. Would it be possible to have that space outfitted with basic cleaning supplies like approved cleaners and rolls of paper towels for those good citizens who like to leave a space cleaner than they found it? Thanks for considering this request!Response: A labeled bottle of approved table cleaner has been placed in the Washington Room kitchen, where you will also be able to find paper towels; for the other end of the WSC, there are two bottles of cleaner labeled “FACILITIES” with a roll of paper towels in the custodial supply room (room #119) near the lunch room/commons area.

January 18 - February 12, 2018

Suggestion: EI/ECSE teams have expressed a desire to see "Listening Sessions" reinstated so that we can talk about program specific problems and solutions together, but without principals present so employees can speak freely. They were previously offered by the Superintendent and while that would continue to be great, conversations with HR might also be adequate. These sessions were highly valued among staff members and would promote positive morale within our teams.Response: We are glad to know that previous listening sessions were well-received and we are developing a plan for site visits/listening sessions again this spring. We plan to invite all staff to ensure any issues and recommendations that arise can be properly addressed, but if you are experiencing a specific issue with your principal or supervisor that you would like to discuss, please reach out directly to your program director or Human Resources.

November 1, 2017 - January 17, 2018

Suggestion: The @knowbe4.com address looks like spam. If IT will consider sending an email prior to the training email being sent out it will be more efficient than searching in deleted emails for what appeared to be spam.Response: Great suggestion. We will add an item to the Monday memo prior to future pieces of training.

Suggestion: It has recently come to my attention that the MESD is somehow partnered with Columbia and their employees receive passes to the Columbia Employee Store periodically. Would it be possible for the NWRESD to contact Columbia to find out what is required so that we can get passes too? Hopefully we would meet the same qualifications as another ESD.Response: Done! Columbia will offer NWRESD staff passes to their employee store periodically. Watch the Mon. Memo for more information.

Suggestion: Recently several families have asked how they can send kudos and "positive reviews" that other parents can see regarding the ESD services they receive. There is a public complaint form on the main website, but I couldn't find a kudos form available for parents. Do you think it would be possible to add this to the main website? Thank you.Response: Done! You can now direct anyone wanting to submit positive reviews about a program or staff to www.nwresd.org > Contact > Submit a positive review. Submissions will be shared with the appropriate people.

Suggestion: Provide an administrative login for key personnel at the school level to do reimbursements for staff. For control: before the key person enters the reimbursement, require the person requesting the reimbursement to sign the receipt copy that will be uploaded.Response: Currently, support staff have access to enter reimbursements for everyone in their DAC. We must be sensitive to support staff workloads, thus we gave everyone access to enter their own. Still have concerns? Please contact Janice or Daniliz and pan to attend the Support Staff training Jan. 23.

October 18-31, 2017

Suggestion: Given the response to the last suggestion about sub training, is there a way to embed an introduction of the PBIS curriculum, tips, strategies, etc. into the mandatory substitute training that they already receive?Response: Great suggestion. There are several possible ways we could provide training on PBIS fundamentals. We’ll research and report back.

September 14 through October 18, 2017

Suggestion: Is there a way to get better training for substitutes that cover appropriate dress code, cell phone, and appropriate interactions with students? Dress nice for first assignments to figure out that schools dress code, keep cell phones put away except for breaks/lunches, and don't have personal conversations with students or share cell phone pictures/conversations with others.Response: During mandatory sub training, we cover appropriate dress code, cell phone, and appropriate interactions. In addition, NWRESD sites review expectations with every sub that comes into their building. It’s imperative that supervisors are told about this type of behavior and that they follow up when they are told.

September 6-13, 2017

Suggestion: Wondering about the parking plan with additional meeting rooms and the looming change of Cherry Drive merging into Ray Circle? Are there plans to limit how many of the large rooms can be reserved on a particular day? Parking's tight many days so just hoping someone is proactively planning parking solutions if additional large meeting spaces are added to the building.Response: Yes, there is ongoing discussion around parking capacity when/if we do build out a large conference room. And good new - there's strong possibility that the Cherry Drive extensionmay actually provide more street parking - we'll see.

August 17-September 6, 2017

Suggestion: Yoga at outlying sites please.Response: Staff are encouraged to duplicate the DIY example of the weekly yoga/barre 3 session at the Washington Service Center.

Here's how it works: A staff member reserved a room for the year and committed to arrive 10 minutes early to set up the space (move tables/chairs out of the way) and a DVD player. Then, everyone simply follows along with 40-minute DVD. The DVD is called "Your Total Body Lift Workout”, but there are many other options available of course.

Suggestion: Because of its connotation please consider renaming room 420 (at WSC). It's not professional.Response: As the remodel nears completion, we'll be re-numbering/naming all rooms at the WSC, and 420 will be no more!

August 16, 2017

Update:Last spring, there was a suggestion to repaint the lines in the parking lot at WSC. You'll be happy to know the work has been schedule for September 15, 2017.

June 13 - August 9, 2017

Suggestion: I have noticed that some other ESDs and school districts have gone to shorter tags in their websites and email addresses. Have we have ever looked at trying to use the domain nwresd.org? When providing email addresses to healthcare providers and parents verbally, the shorter email address would be nice.Response: The Tech Department is looking into it. We'll report back within two weeks.

Suggestion: I've been told we should just throw out dead batteries into the garbage. Is this really what we should be doing with batteries? Wouldn't it be kinder to our Mother Earth to incorporate some type of recycling process.Response: The Facilities Department is looking into it. We'll report back within two weeks. UPDATE (8/16/17): We will collect work-related batteries for recycle. There is a cost associated with recycling, therefore we can't accept batteries from home - thanks for your compliance! A spot will be designated at each service center. At the Washington Service Center that spot will be in the Tech Warehouse next to Troy's desk.

Suggestion: I remember when started at NWRESD we had 3 custodian during the day, now we have none. Everybody understood the agency didn't have money and it was a temporary situation. What is wrong with this picture when staff who don't have time for their duties have clean dishes. But what's even more concerning is when our lunch room smells like dump and the refrigerator wouldn't pass a health inspection. The agency spends a lot money for the building remodeling. Isn't it smart to invest in custodian who will take of this investment?Response: The WSC has custodial service five nights a week. We don't contract with them to do our dishes or clean out refrigerators however because those things should be done by everyone as needed. It's a shame that some people do not feel obligated to pick up after themselves, putting the additional burden on their peers.

Suggestion: At the beginning of the year we asked if it would be possible to get a workout room and the response back said that it would be looked into. Would it be possible to get an update?Response: At this time, NWRESD's wellness efforts don't include adding an exercise room at the WSC for two reasons: we don't have the funds or capacity to ensure it's set up and overseen/maintained safely and correctly. It's not out of the question that it could happen in future years, just not this year. FYI: Multnomah ESD has a 1.0 FTE wellness coordinator to oversee their projects, and they used grant funding to create an exercise room.

May 23 - June 12, 2017

Suggestion: BECC has a masseuse twice a month come in. It is VERY relaxing. $1/minute I believe this would increase individual productivity by promoting wellness.I would welcome this at the ESD enthusiastically and I believe a LOT of others would support this idea. (I have the contact info for the lady at BECC.)Response: While acknowledging the great stress relief factor of massage, choosing one particular therapist over another opens a can of worms, simply because any number of staff could (would perhaps like to) make a recommendation. It’s a slippery slope towards the ethical issues around favoritism etc.

May 9-22, 2017

Suggestion: I'd like to share my idea, the past few years I've been working at School, I have noticed there are always a lot of N.C at the beginning of School year, and was hoping to suggest to have them spread more closer to the end of School year so if there is snow days, those days could be made up instead of ADDING more School days at the end of School year? Response: Our calendar has to match school calendars and if we had built-in NC days towards end of the year, staff would need to schedules days off when school was in session, which only works for a handful of 250-day office staff, not the majority of staff who are in the classroom.

Suggestion: Is there any way to provide more training for EI/ECSE subs. Perhaps a mini Safety First combo with PBIS? Ever since our ESD started providing subs to our regions and not just our programs, the caliber of subs has declined. Much of the time our subs are just bodies in the classrooms without the ability to jump in and assist with our preschool aged special needs kiddos. It's creating unsafe and chaotic environments.Response: Thanks for the suggestion – we’ll look into the best way to provide this important training.

May 1 - 8, 2017

Suggestion: I notice that when I claim "sick family member" for an absence, I am asked to "describe the situation in notes to the administrator." Please explain what kind of explanation is needed, the rationale, and the legalities of asking for this information.Response: First, your suggestion has prompted us to work on clarifying the wording on the Sick Family Member option in the absence reporting system. Basically, the purpose of the box is to ascertain the member of the employee’s family who is ill for the purpose of complying with statute. It is not to seek medical information about the family member.

Background: A new “sick time” law went in to effect last year, in addition to rules around the use of “sick leave” (a different statute).Sick Leave may be used for an employee’s own personal illness or the illness of a sick child under 18 living in the employee’s household. Sick Time allows that an employee can use their earned sick leave to assist an ill family member and those family members are defined in statute. Up to 40 hours can be used in this fashion without having to complete FMLA/OFLA paperwork. However after 40 hours (combined, assisting any family member) the employee needs to complete paperwork for determination of FMLA/OFLA eligibility.

That’s a long answer because there is no short answer! We will get to work on our descriptions and clarifying the purpose of the box. Thank you for your suggestion.

April 24 - May 1, 2017

Suggestion: Here is the answer from a previous question. "We schedule the Safety Meeting so that staff are able to attend during the work day (paid), because history has shown that almost no one wants to attend meetings after work. The concept is that sites and departments will designate staff to attend who will then share what they learned, etc. with the entire site or department." I totally understand your answer, but what about having it on a Friday. That could open it up to Early intervention staff. Or maybe you could look at district calendars and see what day most districts are off for like a teacher work day. Just a thought.Response: Got it... The Executive Oversight Safety Committee will take this under consideration when planning their next regional meeting. Thanks!

April 17-24, 2017

Suggestion: I read in the Monday memo that there will be a Regional Safety meeting from 2-3:30 pm on April 19th. I put forth the suggestion that consideration be given to moving it to a later time so that all/more employees be given a chance to attend as we are spread all over four different counties and also work with students.Response: We schedule the Safety Meeting so that staff are able to attend during the work day (paid), because history has shown that almost no one wants to attend meetings after work. The concept is that sites and departments will designate staff to attend who will then share what they learned, etc. with the entire site or department.

March 21 - April 17, 2017

Suggestion: Hi, I know this was brought up in the past, but I was not sure if you considered doing it this year. It is the painting of the lines in the WSC parking lot. It would be so nice to have the lines clear and noticeable when we are parking here.Response: The Facilities Dept. is on it! Will be done this spring. Thanks!

March 12-21, 2017

Suggestion: There is an outdoor area that connects to the Admin Conference Room. Are there plans to make that area more accessible and comfortable, especially during the summer months?Response: "Not at this time. Between the locked door and meetings held in the Admin. Conf. Rm.,the inner courtyard at the WSC is difficult to access (and while we don't know for sure, there's a possibility that fire code prevents it from being used other than for maintenance, hence the locked door). Fortunately we have a great outdoor space via the west patio outside the Washington Rooms - watch for more info re: raised veggie beds on the south side of the patio as part of our Wellness plan!).

Suggestion: It is very nice when common areas are used for all-staff celebrations. However, please consider using one of the many large rooms available for those occasional private, non-inclusive, group celebrations. It's really not ok to do otherwise and demonstrates the big equity gap existing between different staff groups. If a room is not available at an opportune time, please do what everybody else does and schedule the get-together when a room is available. Response: "Thank you for your point of view. It’s understandable how a large meeting in the common area could have seemed unorthodox and/or prompted a misunderstanding. The intent was to communicate the meeting ahead of time to let staff know they were welcome to listen, but got busy and it didn’t get done.

The meeting was a working lunch for the NWRESD program and department administrators and coordinators – aka Leadership Team. The team broke into two groups in the morning to work on the staff evaluation process, and then met as a large group in the lounge (the only area available that day large enough for a group of 45) to discuss the agency's initiatives around student success, which is the topic of an upcoming Supt. Video chat.

P.S. Lunch is only provided for Leadership meetings on the rare occasion when staff are expected to stay through the lunch hour, which for 2016-17 has been only one other time."

February 28 - March 6, 2017

Suggestion: Why doesn't the WSC reception area have a visitor badge, name tag or sign in/out sheet for building visitors? Most ESD's and district offices require visitors to sign in at the front desk to track who is the building and for safety purposes.Response: We’ve looked into this in the past and have not implemented it for the reasons below:

The WSC doesn’t have safety risks around children as the only children in the building are accompanied by adults.

The building is locked down so that all visitors have to enter via front reception which is well monitored by Lynn.

We are unique among ESDs and district offices in that we host SO MANY meetings - it’s one of the valuable services we provide our districts and partners - and because of the large number of meeting participants, it wouldn’t be practical to have everyone stop at the front desk to sign in; it would create a log jam at the reception desk in the morning.

February 13 -28, 2017

uggestion: I would like to suggest a BIG button on the NWRESD home page for Flash Alert. With all of the weather lately, I'd love for my parents to be able to easily find this link to sign up for weather related closures.Response: DONE!

December 13, 2016 - February 13, 2017

Suggestion: I would like to suggest a BIG button on the NWRESD home page for Flash Alert. With all of the weather lately, I'd love for my parents to be able to easily find this link to sign up for weather related closures.Response: DONE!

Suggestion: It would be most helpful to have technology training classes that include PowerPoint, Excel, Google Docs and any other technology classes. I did Boardmaker years ago and it was most helpful.Response:1. Supervisors can email the Help Desk to arrange a training for their staff: HelpDesk@nwresd.k12.or.us.2. Staff are encouraged to take advantage of free online resources, including:

Anyone with a Washington County Library card can use Lynda.com for free: http://www.wccls.org/research/lyndacom. Library users must access Lynda.com through the WCCLS website using a browser and cannot use the Lynda.com mobile app. Access is limited to 100 library members at a time, but still a huge resource for no cost.

Suggestion: The new furniture at the WSC is very nice for our staff. It would be nice & welcoming to have new furniture for the parents and children we serve in the lobby.Response: The WSC is undergoing a study to help us make best use of space. Your observation will be added to the list of things to be considered. Remember too, parents and students wait in the Early Intervention Evaluation waiting room – not too many people actually wait in our lobby.

Suggestion: The annual Foundation Auction is a wonderful idea to fundraise and has a lot of wonderful items available. I would suggest that another auction is held during the year for employees only (perhaps items made by employees or students, etc.) as, I would assume, most of us are unable to afford the items - we are literally "priced out" of the fun. Thank you for your consideration.Response: We understand your intent, however it takes as much effort to put together an auction with lower price points as it does to facilitate the current model, and remember, we’re looking for the biggest return for our efforts! (By the way, 89%, or 39 of the 44 bidders were ESD staff.)

Suggestion: It seems that employees are using the kitchen pitchers and coffee pots in their departments. Staff needs to be reminded that these items are provided primarily for meetings and events. I suggest 3 ways to assure availability:

Let staff know they are welcome to bring pitchers from home for their needs. Coffee is made in the lunchroom for all to share. (Monday Memo)

When the parking email is sent out, include the all-call for staff to locate and return random coffee pots and pitchers hanging around outside of the kitchens and meeting rooms.

We all need to be mindful and supportive of the departments and groups who invite their guests to our facility. Thank you.

Response: Thanks. An email will go out to staff at the WSC reminding/advising everyone of the extra work and frustration that is caused when meeting/catering supplies are not where they are supposed to be.

October 5 - November 15, 2016

Suggestion: As someone who already writes goals for dozens and dozens of children, making me write more goals as part of my professional evaluation seems like busy work to me. If we must have goals, can I please dictate my own goals so I feel like I have ownership of my professional development?Response: Under Senate Bill 290, educators are required to set Student Learning and Growth Goals and Professional Growth Goals. Districts are encouraged to support collaboration among educators to establish student learning goals for their grade levels, departments, or curricular teams – or in NWRESD’s case – for their sites. It is the expectation of the agency that staff comply with Oregon’s Educator Effectiveness evaluation system.

Suggestion: I would like the ESD offer more Google classes, especially Google Docs, intro level, and intermediate levels. Are there any plans to have our Tech staff present to us?Response: The Technology Department will be sharing out training dates very soon. Really.

Suggestion: What are the results of lead testing?Response: Recently we distributed a press release to let the public know the results of lead testing at our sites. Below is the gist of it. Read the full release here: http://www.nwresd.org/press-room.html

The Northwest Regional Education Service District announced today results of drinking water in the agency’s offices and program sites in all four counties: Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, and Washington. Results indicate that lead levels meet federal guidelines at all but two drinking fountains.

Lead was initially detected above the recommended level at one drinking fountain at the Clatsop Service Center and one at the Beaverton Early Childhood Center. The fountains were immediately taken out of service and the agency is retesting and will rectify the problem as soon as possible. Both fountains are rarely used, which may have led to the higher rates.

September 22 - October 4, 2016

Suggestion: Was there an evaluation sent out for the in service day? I didn't see anything and it might not be a bad idea for administration to get a feel from the staff on how useful the time was or if the result of the time spent matched the day's objectives from the administration's viewpoint.Response: We don't always send out a post-inservice evaluation, and didn't do so this year. However, if you have specific suggestion please send it to HRHelp@nwresd.k12.or.us. Thanks!

Suggestion: I was recently at the Multnomah ESD (MESD) main office and saw that they now have a workout room for their employees. I was told that the equipment was donated by Nike. In support of the wellness programs that we are trying to implement here at the NWRESD, would it be possible to setup a workout room at the WSC?Response: This is certainly not out of the question. 1.) We'll contact MESD to find out what was involved in their decision-making process, etc. and see what we can learn (rather than re-invent the wheel). 2.) We're in the beginning stages of performing a facility review of the WSC and will keep a workout/yoga room in mind. 3.) Our accident insurer (SAIF) will need to weigh in to ensure there's a balance between benefit vs. risk.

Suggestion: For the 2017 Fall In-Service can a healthier lunch & snacks be provided? We were offered Granola Bars as a snack and a BBQ lunch with Enriched White Hamburger Buns and a choice of Chips. After lunch we were shown a brief video and asked to participate in a Blue Zone group to improve our health. NWRESD should lead by example.Response: Holding the ins-service in Vernonia limited our options for a company to cater for over 500 people; however, healthier lunch options will be taken into consideration in the future (we do always share out the menu ahead of time to help staff with dietary restrictions to make the best choice for them - which might mean a sack lunch from home).

Suggestion: Have you seen those drinking fountains that have a water bottle filler? I have seen them at a school and they are awesome. They are probably spendy but something to keep in mind if any replacements are being considered. http://www.elkay.com/bottle-filling-stations. Thanks for listening.Response: The difficulty with implementing any think new like this is how to be fair - if the agency purchases an item for one site, we really need to consider purchasing for all sites. And that is often cost-prohibitive. However, we are considering a fair way to use funds that have been set aside for 'Wellness' that will allow individual sites to determine what they do with their portion of the funds... At this time, we don't know the dollar amount or what the process would look, but stay tuned!

September 6 - 21, 2016

Suggestion: Please ensure that the online Mileage Reimbursement form is working. Many employees have had issues with error reports or loosing data as they input. Maybe a new program or software update is needed to make sure employees can easily and regularly request reimbursement.” Response: We will contact the software provider and let him know staff are experiences error reports and losing data. When you experience an error, please write up a quick note about it and email to dortega@nwresd.k12.or.us

Suggestion: I would love to have cold water filters throughout the building. Response: Sorry – it’s been determined that it’s an extra cost we can do without.

Suggestion: Could the agency consider Safety Response Protocol (SRP) and Safety in Motion (SIM) trainings during a small breakout session at the all-staff in service next year? It is very difficult to schedule these trainings for staff with varying work days to include no student days, etc. Response: This will definitely be considered.

June 14 - September 5, 2016

Suggestion: Thank you for sharing some of the results from the staff survey last year. I'm wondering if we could read the entire results?Response: Yes – VERY SOON we will share aggregated results via ESD email and in the Monday Memo.”

Suggestion: Are there going to be PowerPoint classes and other computer classes?Response: Yes – The Professional Development Department is working to set up PD around computer and software skills. Please consider these free prof dev resources as well:

Free Online Professional Development Resources

Anyone with a Washington County Library card can use Lynda.com for free: http://www.wccls.org/research/lyndacom. Library users must access Lynda.com through the WCCLS website using a browser and cannot use the Lynda.com mobile app. Access is limited to 100 library members at a time, but still a huge resource for no cost.

Northwest Regional Education Service District is in the process of making its electronic and information technologies accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you have suggestions or comments please email Communications or call 503-614-1428.